Symptoms in the Elderly

Causes of Depression

Complexity of this medical condition is apparent. Probable causes may have mixtures of psychological changes, biological changes, and social factors.

There appears to be a genetic component where family members all exhibit different levels of severity. But in other cases, it can occur without any known genetic support.

Decreased Serotonin activity has been largely studied and is a central medication that replaces Serotonin. Serotonin acts in the brain to help regulate neurotransmitters

Studies have also looked at actual brain changes in those with depression and without. Again the problem is that in some cases there are changes, and in other cases there aren’t.

Behavior changes such as job lost, bullies, significant fear or threat, death of a loved one, incarceration, and many many other changes can affect or stimulate depression.

Mental health changes or emotional breakdowns can induce depression. Low-self esteem can also be a cause factor. Drug and Alcohol use can be a cause of depression in some cases or try to mask the symptoms.

Drug and Alcohol Abuse

Depression because of Substance Abuse, according to the DSM-IV cannot be the sole symptom to receive a diagnosis of Depression

But Alcoholism is a risk factor in getting Depression

Other medications such as benzodiazepines, pain medications, elicit drug abuse and other medications can be taken in excess in those with depression.

Diagnosis

An assessment by be done by a general practitioner, a psychiatrist or a psychologist.

A review of mental health history is done, along with current symptoms, drug history, current social circumstances, and family history.

A discussion of suicide thoughts, plans, history, and current state are done.

Blood work is needed to be done to rule out other medical causes that can have similar symptoms

Management

Depending on severity, status, or social responsibilities or concerns – management will mean something different to everyone.

Options:

– Psychotherapy
– Behavior
– Medications
– Electroconvulsive

Psychotherapy

– Can be given in families, groups, or individually
– Should be done by health care professionals
– Social workers are a great source of psychotherapy
– This may be done in combination with medications

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

– Has the most research for children and adolescents
– Is a talking therapy
– Aims to solve problems, solve behavioral problems, and solves cognitive concerns
– It is believed to be a combination of Behavior therapy and Cognitive therapy

Antidepressants

– None to minimal improvement for those with mild or moderate depression
– Significant improvement with those with severe disease